ARUGULA– Arugula has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. This ingredient was added to grated orchid bulbs, parsnips, and also combined with pine nuts and pistachios.

ASPARAGUS-The Aztecs called the avocado tree “Ahuacuati” which translated means “testicle tree”. The ancients thought the fruit hanging in pairs on the tree resembled the male’s testicles. This is a delicious fruit with a sensuous texture.

BROCCOLI-The ground seeds of various plants in the brassica family were believed to increase virility. In the case of broccoli rabe its more likely a myth created to get people to eat this bitter green vegetable.

BASIL-Is said to stimulate the sex drive and boost fertility. It is also said to produce a general sense of well being for body and mind.

CHOCOLATE-The Aztecs referred to chocolate “nourishment of the Gods”. Chocolate contains chemicals thought to effect neurotransmitters in the brain and a related substance to caffeine called theobromine. Chocolate contains more antioxidants than does red wine. The secret for passion is to combine the two.

CARROTS-Believed to be a stimulant to the male. The phallus shaped carrot has been associated with stimulation since ancient times and was used by early Middle Eastern royalty to aid seduction.

CORIANDER-The book of The Arabian nights tells a tale of a merchant who had been childless for 40 years but was cured by a concoction that included coriander. That book is over 1000 years old so the history of coriander as an aphrodisiac dates back far into history.

GARLIC-The “heat” in garlic is said to stir sexual desires. Make sure you and your partner share it together. Garlic has been used for centuries to cure everything from the common cold to heart ailments. This is a good time for moderation.

GINGER-Raw, cooked, or crystallized is a stimulant to the circulatory system.

HONEY-Many medicines in Egyptian times were based on honey including cures for sterility and impotence. Medieval seduces plied their partners with Mead, a fermented drink made from honey. Lovers on their “Honeymoon” drank mead and it was thought to “sweeten” the marriage.

NUTMEG- Nutmeg was highly prized by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac. In quantity nutmeg can produce a hallucinogenic effect.

OLIVE OIL-Packed with antioxidants, olives and their oil have been used for centuries for health. The Greeks believed they made men more virile as well.

PINE NUTS-Zinc is a key mineral necessary to maintain male potency and pine nuts are rich in zinc. Pine nuts have been used to stimulate the libido as far back as Medieval times.

SALMON-Salmon often gets the nod as one of the healthiest fish you can eat, and not only is it a great source of protein to help build lean muscle – which alone would improve your sex life – it also contains omega-3s, which can lead to increased levels of serotonin, which can lead to an improved mood and mental state, making you more likely to initiate sex and enjoy it as well. The pink, velvety texture of a salmon fillet is also stimulating to the senses, and cooking for your partner can serve as the best aphrodisiac of all. Remember, it’s not just one food that will do it for you, but a concerted effort of foods, drinks, and actions.

VANILLA-The scent and flavor of vanilla is believed to increase lust. According to the Australian Orchid Society, “Old Totonac lore has it that Xanat, the young daughter of the Mexican fertility goddess, loved a Totonac youth. Unable to marry him due to her divine nature, she transformed herself into a plant that would provide pleasure and happiness.

WINE-A glass or two of wine can greatly enhance a romantic interlude. Wine relaxes and helps to stimulate our senses. Drinking wine can be an erotic experience. Let your eyes feast on the color of the liquid. Caress the glass, savor the taste on your lips. Do remember that excessive alcohol will make you too drowsy for the after-dinner romance.